The kitchen offers granite countertops, an island with sink and ample seating, warm wood cabinetry, breakfast area and doors leading to the outside.

The luxurious 4-bedroom, 4 1/2-half bathroom, 4,008 square foot, two-story Northgate home in Simi Valley is on a corner lot with spacious front yard and huge back and side yard. It also features convenient RV, boat and automobile access.

When it comes to the real estate market, the desire to live in a neighborhood that's both picturesque and safe, with beautiful architecture and landscaped front lawns is what brings together the diverse demographic of singles, couples and families.

That's why one of the best places to live is the city of Simi Valley, located in the eastern part of Ventura County, and known for its friendly neighborhoods, low crime rate and distinctive properties, including the prestigious Northgate development.

Currently for sale is a luxurious four bedroom, four-and-a-half bathroom, 4,008 square foot, two-story Northgate home, built in 2003, and located at 517 Running Creek Court. Situated at the south end of scenic Sinaloa Road, which gently bends into Running Creek Court, this home has the advantage of being on a corner lot, making the property especially large at nearly one-half acre.

Because of its unusual size, 517 Running Creek Court has a spacious front yard and huge back and side yards with convenient RV, boat and automobile access. If a prospective homeowner is an RV- or boat-owner, this accessibility, and on such a large property, is a particularly welcome feature, as it means there is no need to store one's toys at an offsite location.

In addition to the yard's extra vehicle space, there is a three-car garage, plus a one-car garage, with plenty of room for automobiles, bicycles and motorcycles. Numerous rose bushes, plants, shrubs and palm trees gracefully enhance the outdoor flagstone and stucco seating area of the front exterior of the home provide a wonderful place to enjoy that morning coffee.

The exterior of the residence is distinctively California-Mediterranean in style, with warm paint tones, staggered roofline, and soft archways to enhance the architecture.

The warmth extends to the inside of the home, with recently painted walls in neutral tones, tiled and carpeted floors and a continuation of the arches that represent California's Spanish heritage, complemented by modern amenities and additional artistic touches.

One of the four bedrooms is downstairs, and conveniently has an attached bathroom, creating a suite for guests, in-laws, nanny, caregiver, or for use as a teen hangout.

Within the home there are numerous, well-appointed living spaces, including a living room with fireplace, formal dining room with patio doors and playroom or office area with outside access.

A family room with fireplace and built-in television and entertainment center is next to the gourmet kitchen, which has granite countertops, an island with sink and ample seating, warm wood cabinetry, breakfast area and doors leading to the outside.

The backyard is truly an entertainer's dream, with an enormous amount of space for parties, or just for the new homeowners to revel in the privacy afforded by the relative seclusion and incredible mountain views. A large, manicured grassy area offers enough room for children and pets to play, and there is a lovely pool with spa and waterfalls, surrounded by golden flagstone and artfully stamped concrete.

Back inside, and up the dramatic, sweeping staircase, the master suite is a getaway, with bedroom, attached sitting room with built-in entertainment center and cabinetry, and spa-sized bathroom. The striking marble floors and tub-surround offer a serene ambiance, and there are his-and-her sinks, dual walk-in closets, separate shower, vanity area and separate room for the commode.

There are two more bedrooms upstairs, each with its own bathroom, plus an office niche for working or studying at home. A large top-floor loft can be used as a game room, playroom or den, or if the new homeowner desires, can easily be converted into a fifth bedroom.

Other amenities include an upstairs laundry room with balcony, two air conditioning units, dual-pane windows and clever display niches throughout.

In a quiet, desirable neighborhood, 517 Running Creek Court is just a short distance from shopping, dining, and award-winning schools.

For more information about this immaculate home, including price, or for a private tour, contact the listing agent, Realtor Daniel Friera, at 818-430-6501. Friera will be hosting an open house today from 1 to 4 p.m. Also visit his website, www.danielfriera.com.